While the library is a great place to check out books, of course, most libraries also offer many other money-saving programs and resources. Here are a few more ways to save at the library:

1. DVDs & CD’s
Many libraries offer free DVD rentals! Music CD’s are also available to check out from the library. So much money can be saved by checking out DVDs from the library over the years instead of renting or buying them!

2. Kid’s Toys
Kid’s play areas at the library often have puzzles or other toys that children can play with and are a great place to take your children on cold winter days. It doesn’t cost any money (and mom can bring some books home, too!).

3. Audiobooks
Check your library to see what their audiobook collection is like. Many have a pretty extensive collection — and some even offer audiobooks you can download for a time period.

4. Ebooks
Many people don’t realize that most public libraries have eBooks available for checkout through their websites. All you have to do is log into your local library’s site using your library card, then follow the links for eBooks (often, there are also digital audio books available).

5. Local Attraction Memberships
Some libraries offer memberships to local attractions (zoos, museums, etc.) that you can “check out”. If your library offers this, it’s a great way to visit local attractions and have some family fun — without spending a dime!

6. Online Foreign Language Programs
Many public libraries across the country have a free program for learning a foreign language. It’s called Mango Languages. If you check their website, you can find out if your local library participates. You can find out if your library participates here.

7.  Summer Reading Programs
Summer reading programs provide huge motivation for children to get in a lot of reading during the summer, and the rewards are amazing— things like free Kid’s meals, free miniature golf, a free smoothie at McDonald’s, free baseball game tickets, free ice skating passes, and more.

8. Online Classes
Check to see if your library offers free online classes through Universal Class.  There are hundreds of classes to choose from out of there 42 areas of study.  Some of those areas include: office skills, performing arts, parenting, homeschooling, do it yourself, gardening, cooking, computers, accounting and web development.

9. Kindles
Some libraries loan out Kindles!  They come pre-loaded with 15-20 titles.  Libraries often use different themes including: New York Times Fiction & Non-Fiction Bestsellers, Romance, Mystery, Science Fiction, Classics, Popular Fiction, Biography and more!  This is a great way to test out a Kindle before you buy one.

 

Note: If you have a relatively small library that doesn’t have a great selection, check and see if they offer Inter-Library loan. Most libraries do, and this offers a much, much broader selection. You have to request the book and then wait for it to come in, but it’s free–which usually makes it worth a bit of a wait!

You can also suggest books for your library to purchase. They might not heed your suggestion, but it’s always worth a shot.

 

Thanks to Money Saving Mom for the great tips! Find the original post here.

 

Planning a family vacation this spring/summer? Here are a handful of my favorite ideas on ways to save when traveling as a family from this post (thanks, Penny Pinchin’ Mom!):

“Hotels with free breakfast!” – Jana K.

“Travel at night so they sleep and don’t need to eat. Also we pack snack boxes and a cooler with drinks.” – Amy R.

“Crock pot meals in the hotel room and eat by the pool instead of going out to dinner!!” – Gina M.

“Look up the community on Facebook and reach out for suggestions from local parents on where to go for fun, inexpensive (or even free) activities for kids.” – Jill T.

“Rent a house/condo from VRBO or homeway instead of hotel rooms. They are cheaper and you can cook two meals a day, which saves a bunch.” – Stephanie B.

“Plan ahead. Spur of the moment trips always cost more.” – Kristi S.

“I pack a cooler with drinks, snacks, cold cuts and bread to save time and money for those random hunger moments that cost you an arm and a leg at the gas station convenience store.

I research nearby restaurants to the hotel and look for coupons or promos that will save us some money on our vacation dining.